Malaysia’s men’s doubles department is set for a fierce selection battle ahead of the 2026 Asian Games, with at least four pairs competing for only two available places in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
National men’s doubles head coach Herry Iman Pierngadi confirmed that competition for selection will be based heavily on consistency and performances in major tournaments leading up to the Games from Sept 19 to Oct 4.
Leading the race are world No. 2 pair Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik, who remain Malaysia’s most experienced combination after winning Olympic bronze medals and consistently competing at the highest level.
World No. 6 duo Man Wei Chong and Tee Kai Wun are also firmly in contention following their strong rise on the world stage.
Independent pair Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin Rumsani, currently ranked world No. 9, remain serious contenders despite operating outside the national setup. Their inclusion would continue the trend of independent players representing Malaysia at major multi-sport events.
Source: Harian Metro
Meanwhile, young combination Wan Arif Wan Junaidi and Yap Roy King have also emerged as outside challengers after showing encouraging progress in recent tournaments.
Herry stressed that upcoming competitions, including the World Championships and selected World Tour events, will play a major role in final selection decisions. He said the coaching team wants players to prove they can maintain strong form consistently under pressure.
The coaching staff is also carefully monitoring injuries, particularly the knee condition of Man Wei Chong. Tournament participation for certain events may be adjusted depending on his physical condition to avoid aggravating the problem ahead of the Asian Games.
Malaysia has traditionally been one of the strongest nations in Asian Games men’s doubles, having won medals in multiple editions, including gold through Koo Kien Keat and Tan Boon Heong in 2006. The current crop will now be aiming to continue that legacy as competition for selection intensifies over the coming months.
